Each Divine Beast has its own unique controllable function, directly correlated to its form and design. The functions can be controlled while inside each beast's innards by downloading the map on the Sheikah Slate. After freeing each beast, Link may not enter and therefore may not adjust the beasts after leaving them. Vah Medoh, a mechanical eagle, has the ability to have its roll adjusted which puts the dungeon at a tilt. Vah Naboris, a mechanical camel, has individually controllable rings in its stomach that each contain a line. When properly adjusted, the lines are charged with a high electric current. Vah Rudania, a mechanical salamander, can completely turn its body at a 90° angle. Vah Ruta, a mechanical elephant, can move its trunk to spray water in different areas. All four beasts make unique calls, with Ruta's and Medoh's bearing the signature sounds of their respective animals.

History

Many years ago, it was foretold by the fortune teller that the return of Calamity Ganon was inevitable. This sparked a search for the fabled ancient Sheikah relics, including the Guardians and the four Divine Beasts. Many believed them to be simply a legend but their discovery made this legend a reality for them. Realizing this, King Rhoam formed a group of exceptionally skilled warriors referred to as Champions. Commanded by Princess Zelda, four elite warriors were selected from across the kingdom and were tasked with the duty of piloting the Divine Beasts to assist Link, Princess Zelda's appointed Knight and the Hylian Champion selected by the Master Sword. One hundred years prior to the events of Breath of the Wild, while the Champions were making preparations to battle Calamity Ganon, he reappeared and devastated the Kingdom of Hyrule by taking control of the Guardians and the Divine Beasts, killing four of the Champions in the process.

A hundred years later, however, they were ultimately disabled and purged of their corruption by Link, with their ultimately settling at an area allowing for a good vantage point to fire upon Calamity Ganon once he resurfaces at Hyrule Castle. It is heavily implied that Calamity Ganon's control over them weakened slightly over the past century due to their sending out a coded signal requesting help, which was partially how Link was able to disable them with some help.

Etymology

After freeing Vah Naboris, the Gerudo Champion Urbosa explicitly states that Naboris was named after Nabooru. Vah Medoh stands out, as it is the only Divine Beast to not be named after a sage from Ocarina of Time, but a sage from The Wind Waker as the Rito does not exist until the latter game.